Spring Clean and Brush-Up on These Tips
- Store all dangerous household products and chemicals out of reach and out of sight of small children and pets.
- Store all potential poisons in their original containers.
- Never store potential poisons in containers used for eating and drinking. (For example: Do not mix up a pesticide or weed killer and then store it in a water bottle or milk jug.)
- Leave the original labels on all products.
- Lock up medicines.
- Use child resistant caps/closures.
- Always read the label before using and follow the instructions on medicines, cleaners, pesticides, automotive, lawn and garden products for their proper use.
- Never refer to medicine as candy to a young child.
- Avoid taking medicine in front of small children. (They like to imitate you.)
- Turn on a light when taking or giving medication.
- When you are using household chemical products and medicines, never let them out of your sight, even if you must take them along when answering the door or phone.
- Clean out your medicine cabinet periodically and properly dispose of old and unused medicines.
- Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home.
- Know the names of plants located in and around the home.
It’s March, the snakes will be waking up soon!! First Aid for Poisonous Snake Bites
- Remain calm.
- Do not try to capture the snake.
- Note time of the bite and remove all tight clothing or jewelry which may delay or hide swelling.
- Call the poison center immediately at 1-800-222-1222 for instructions on all snake bites.
- Immobilize the limb or body part at or slightly above heart level.
- Wash the bite area with soap and water.
- DO NOT use ice or a tourniquet.
- DO NOT cut over the fang marks and try to suck out the venom.
- Transport the patient to the closest hospital.
The Missouri Poison Center is available 24-7-365 to help answer any questions that you may have, just call 1-800-222-1222. A call to the poison center is free and confidential.